KUALA LUMPUR (July 10): Despite a deficit of around 9,000 electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and two years before its set deadline, the government is still on track in achieving its target of 10,000 chargers installed nationwide by 2025, according to Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
While Tengku Zafrul called the target “aggressive”, he said the government remains confident in achieving the target it set, if the growth in the number of EV chargers installed is exponential.
“So far, we have exceeded 1,000 [EV chargers], but if we see that growth is aggressive, we will definitely meet the 10,000 mark with the support of the various ministries,” he said during a press conference after officiating at the soft launch of the International Electric Mobility Showcase 2023 (IEMS 2023).
Tengku Zafrul noted that the 10,000 chargers by 2025 target was set out in the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint 2021-2030 back in 2020.
He noted that prior progress towards the target was obstructed by too much red tape, including nine-to-12 month long approval processes, but noted that the government had moved to expedite these procedures.
'Malaysia ready to capitalise on EV momentum'
The IEMS 2023, to be held for its second iteration from Oct 4 to 6, is set to showcase the latest advancements and innovations in electric mobility.
Tengku Zafrul noted that the Asean EV market is forecast to reach US$2.7 billion (RM11.77 billion) by 2027, which he said presents a tremendous opportunity for Malaysia.
“Malaysia is ready to capitalise on this momentum. The government is fully committed to providing unwavering support via constructive supportive policies and by offering enticing incentives to propel the success of EV industry players.
“This will cement Malaysia’s position as a front runner in the Asean EV market and beyond,” he added.